Cleaning Camera Lenses: Removing Fungus And Mold

Camera lens fungus is a common problem, especially in humid climates or when lenses are stored in dark, damp places. It can cause cloudy patterns to form and, if left untreated, can eat away at the lens' protective coating and even etch the glass.

To prevent lens fungus, it is important to keep your camera equipment clean and stored in a cool, dry place, ideally in an airtight container with bags of silica gel, which absorbs moisture. You should also avoid storing your camera in leather bags, as fungi can easily grow in these.

If your lens does become infected with fungus, you will need to act quickly. One method for removing lens fungus is to create a solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and ammonia and gently soak the affected lens in this solution for a few minutes. You can then use a cotton ball to wipe away any remaining fungus. It is important to wear gloves and safety glasses when handling the solution, as it contains strong chemicals. Once the fungus has been removed, rinse the lens with water and dry it with a lens poofer or microfiber cloth.

Another method for removing lens fungus is to disassemble the lens and clean the individual elements. This can be done using a lens wrench to remove the front of the lens and then washing the glass with hot water and dish soap. The glass can then be dried with rubber gloves and put back into the barrel of the lens.

Store your camera and lenses in airtight containers with bags of silica gel to absorb moisture

Storing your camera and lenses in airtight containers with bags of silica gel is a great way to prevent the growth of fungus. Silica gel is a desiccant, which means it absorbs and holds moisture, helping to keep the relative humidity low. This is important because high humidity is one of the main factors that promote fungal growth.

When storing your camera and lenses in airtight containers with silica gel, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure the containers are made of a material that is airtight, such as plastic. Avoid using containers made of wood or metal, as these are not airtight and can lead to fungus growth. Second, place several bags of silica gel inside the container, spaced evenly throughout. The number of bags you need will depend on the size of the container and the number of cameras and lenses you are storing. It's a good idea to have a few extra bags on hand in case you need to replace them. Third, check the silica gel bags regularly and replace them when they become saturated with moisture. You can usually tell when silica gel needs to be replaced because it changes colour from blue to white. Finally, make sure to store the airtight container in a cool, dry location. Avoid places that are hot or humid, as this can defeat the purpose of using silica gel.

By following these tips, you can effectively use airtight containers with silica gel to prevent fungus from growing on your camera and lenses. Remember to inspect your equipment regularly and take them out to use and clean them occasionally. This will help you catch any signs of fungus early on and prevent it from spreading.

Clean the outside of your lenses regularly to remove dust and grease deposits

Cleaning the outside of your lenses is a simple yet important task that can help maintain image quality and the longevity of your equipment. Here are some tips to effectively clean the outside of your lenses:

• Use a microfibre cloth: Microfibre cloths have pores that effectively suck up greasy fingerprints and dust from the surface of your lens. They are available at camera stores or larger low-cost options can be found in car accessory stores.
• Avoid rubbing too hard: When using a microfibre cloth, use a gentle circular movement to wipe away any dirt. Start from the middle and work outwards to avoid the central 'sweet spot' of the lens.
• Use a hurricane blower: A hurricane blower, such as the Giottos Rocket, can help dislodge specks of dirt and grit from the recesses of your camera and lens. This is especially useful for removing bits of grit and sand that could scratch the lens if you used the cloth alone.
• Clean other parts: Use the microfibre cloth to wipe other parts of the camera, such as the LCD screen and eyepiece, for a cleaner surface.
• Clean regularly but only when needed: You don't need to clean your lenses every time you use them or even every week. However, if you live in a dusty or sandy area, more frequent cleaning may be necessary. Even a relatively thick layer of dirt on the front element of the lens will not significantly affect image quality.

Dry your camera and lenses thoroughly before storing them

To prevent the growth of fungus, it is important to thoroughly dry your camera and lenses before storing them. Here are some tips to ensure your equipment stays dry and fungus-free:

• After using your camera, gently dry it with a hairdryer on a low setting or a soft, absorbent cloth before putting it away for long-term storage. Ensure there is no moisture left on the camera body and lenses.
• Store your camera gear in an airtight container with silica gel or another desiccant material to maintain the relative humidity between 40% and 50% RH. Silica gel packets are reusable and can be dried out in the oven or microwave once they turn from blue to pink.
• Use your camera equipment frequently, as fungus growth is inhibited by exposure to fresh air, light, and UV rays. Taking your camera out for a spin will also ensure that stale air does not remain inside your storage container.
• Avoid exposing your camera and lenses to high humidity environments (65-70% RH or higher) for prolonged periods. If you live in a humid region, consider investing in a dry cabinet to maintain optimal humidity levels for your equipment.
• If you must store your camera for an extended period, place it in a well-ventilated area with an ambient humidity range of 40-50% RH.
• Exposure to sunlight or UV light can help kill fungus, but be cautious not to leave your camera unattended in direct sunlight as it can damage the equipment.
• Keep your camera gear in a sealed box loaded with desiccant packets when not in use, especially if you live in a humid region or plan to store your equipment for a long time.
• Always bring a rain cover and poncho when shooting outdoors to protect your equipment from unexpected downpours.

Use a hydrogen peroxide and ammonia solution to clear away fungus

To clean fungus from camera lenses, a 50/50 solution of hydrogen peroxide and ammonia is recommended by some photographers. However, it is important to note that this solution should not be used on lenses with cemented lens groups, as it can eat away at the glue.

Step 1: Prepare the Solution

Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and ammonia to form a 50/50 solution. It is important to exercise caution when handling and mixing chemicals, and this solution should be prepared in a well-ventilated area.

Step 2: Soak the Lens Elements

Soak the affected lens elements in the solution for a few minutes. Do not leave the lens elements in the solution for longer than three minutes, as prolonged exposure may damage the lens coatings. If the fungus is particularly stubborn, you may need to soak the lens for a little longer, but do not exceed five minutes.

Step 3: Wipe the Lens Elements

Remove each lens element from the solution one at a time and place them on a clean surface. Use a clean lens tissue to wipe each element, ensuring that you use a fresh section of the tissue for each wipe. Wipe the lens elements in a circular motion, applying gentle pressure.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry the Lens Elements

After removing the fungus, rinse the lens elements with clean water to remove any residual solution. Use a bulb blower to blow away excess moisture and ensure that the lens elements are thoroughly dried before proceeding to the next step.

Step 5: Clean with Lens Cleaning Fluid

Apply a small amount of lens cleaning fluid to a fresh lens tissue and wipe each lens surface in a circular motion until it is clean and clear. Ensure that you work quickly, as the lens cleaning fluid will dry rapidly.

Step 6: Final Wipe with Lens Cloth

Finish the cleaning process by wiping each lens surface with a lens cloth or chamois to remove any remaining lint or oil. Inspect each surface carefully under a lamp or bright LED light to ensure that no fibres or residue have been left behind.

It is important to note that this process should only be carried out if you are comfortable with opening and disassembling your camera lenses. If you are unsure, it may be best to seek the services of a professional lens repair technician.

Soak the lens in a vinegar and water solution to remedy the fungus problem

To remedy the fungus problem, you can soak the lens in a vinegar and water solution. Vinegar is an effective anti-fungal agent that will help prevent the fungus from returning.

Firstly, you will need to remove the affected glass element from the lens. Then, prepare a solution of vinegar and water. The exact ratio of vinegar to water is not specified, but it is recommended that you do not soak the lens elements in the solution for longer than 3 minutes. Soak the element in the solution for a few minutes, then remove it and gently wipe it with a clean lens tissue or cloth while it is still wet. Be sure to use a different corner of the tissue for each wipe to ensure you are always using a clean part.

Once the glass is clear of fungus, blot it dry with a paper towel. Then, pour a little vinegar over the lens to prevent water spots from forming. Finally, dry the lens off again with a fresh piece of paper towel.

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